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About this Title:

One of the plays in the 1916 Oxford University Press edition of all of Shakespeare’s plays and poems.

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Several Lords and Ladies in the Dumb Shows; Women attending upon the Queen; Spirits which appear to her; Scribes, Officers, Guards, and other Attendants.

Scene.—Chiefly in London and Westminster; once, at Kimbolton.

PROLOGUE.

I come no more to make you laugh: things now,

That bear a weighty and a serious brow,

Sad, high, and working, full of state and woe,

Such noble scenes as draw the eye to flow,Craig1916: 4

We now present. Those that can pity, here

May, if they think it well, let fall a tear;

The subject will deserve it. Such as give

Their money out of hope they may believe,Craig1916: 8

May here find truth too. Those that come to see

Only a show or two, and so agree

The play may pass, if they be still and willing,

I’ll undertake may see away their shillingCraig1916: 12

Richly in two short hours. Only they

That come to hear a merry, bawdy play,

A noise of targets, or to see a fellow

In a long molley coat guarded with yellow,Craig1916: 16

Will be deceiv’d; for, gentle hearers, know,

To rank our chosen truth with such a show

As fool and fight is, besides forfeiting

Our own brains, and the opinion that we bring,

To make that only true we now intend,Craig1916: 21

Will leave us never an understanding friend.

Therefore, for goodness’ sake, and as you are known

The first and happiest hearers of the town,Craig1916: 24

Be sad, as we would make ye: think ye see

The very persons of our noble story

As they were living; think you see them great,

And follow’d with the general throng and sweatCraig1916: 28

Of thousand friends; then, in a moment see

How soon this mightiness meets misery:

And if you can be merry then, I’ll say

A man may weep upon his wedding day.Craig1916: 32

ACT I.

Scene I.—: London. An Antechamber in the Palace.

Enter at one door theDuke of Norfolk;at the other, theDuke of Buckinghamand theLord Abergavenny.

Buck

Good morrow, and well met. How have you done,

Edition: current; Page: [733]

Since last we saw in France?

Nor.

I thank your Grace,

Healthful; and ever since a fresh admirer

Of what I saw there.

Buck.

An untimely agueCraig1916: 4

Stay’d me a prisoner in my chamber, when

Those suns of glory, those two lights of men,

Met in the vale of Andren.

Nor.

’Twixt Guynes and Arde:

I was then present, saw them salute on horseback;Craig1916: 8

Beheld them, when they lighted, how they clung

In their embracement, as they grew together;

Which had they, what four thron’d ones could have weigh’d

Such a compounded one?

Buck.

All the whole timeCraig1916: 12

I was my chamber’s prisoner.

Nor.

Then you lost

The view of earthly glory: men might say,

Till this time, pomp was single, but now married

To one above itself. Each following dayCraig1916: 16

Became the next day’s master, till the last

Made former wonders its. To-day the French

All clinquant, all in gold, like heathen gods,

Shone down the English; and to-morrow they

Made Britain India: every man that stoodCraig1916: 21

Show’d like a mine. Their dwarfish pages were

As cherubins, all gilt: the madams, too,

Not us’d to toil, did almost sweat to bearCraig1916: 24

The pride upon them, that their very labour

Was to them as a painting. Now this masque

Was cried incomparable; and the ensuing night

Made it a fool, and beggar. The two kings,Craig1916: 28

Equal in lustre, were now best, now worst,

As presence did present them; him in eye,

Still him in praise; and, being present both,

’Twas said they saw but one; and no discerner

Durst wag his tongue in censure. When these suns—Craig1916: 33

For so they phrase ’em—by their heralds challeng’d

The noble spirits to arms, they did perform

Beyond thought’s compass; that former fabulous story,Craig1916: 36

Being now seen possible enough, got credit,

That Bevis was believ’d.

Buck.

O! you go far.

Nor.

As I belong to worship, and affect

In honour honesty, the tract of every thingCraig1916: 40

Would by a good discourser lose some life,

Which action’s self was tongue to. All was royal;

To the disposing of it nought rebell’d,

Order gave each thing view; the office didCraig1916: 44

Distinctly his full function.

Buck.

Who did guide,

I mean, who set the body and the limbs

Of this great sport together, as you guess?

Nor.

One certes, that promises no elementCraig1916: 48

In such a business.

Buck.

I pray you, who, my lord?

Nor.

All this was order’d by the good discretion

Of the right reverend Cardinal of York.

Buck.

The devil speed him! no man’s pie is freedCraig1916: 52

From his ambitious finger. What had he

To do in these fierce vanities? I wonder

That such a keech can with his very bulk

Take up the rays o’ the beneficial sun,Craig1916: 56

And keep it from the earth.

Nor.

Surely, sir,

There’s in him stuff that puts him to these ends;

For, being not propp’d by ancestry, whose grace

Chalks successors their way, nor call’d uponCraig1916: 60

For high feats done to the crown; neither allied

To eminent assistants; but, spider-like,

Out of his self-drawing web, he gives us note,

The force of his own merit makes his way;Craig1916: 64

A gift that heaven gives for him, which buys

A place next to the king.

Aber.

I cannot tell

What heaven hath given him: let some graver eye

Pierce into that; but I can see his prideCraig1916: 68

Peep through each part of him: whence has he that?

If not from hell, the devil is a niggard,

Or has given all before, and he begins

A new hell in himself.

Buck.

Why the devil,Craig1916: 72

Upon this French going-out, took he upon him,

Without the privity o’ the king, to appoint

Who should attend on him? He makes up the file

Of all the gentry; for the most part suchCraig1916: 76

To whom as great a charge as little honour

He meant to lay upon: and his own letter,—

The honourable board of council out,—

Must fetch him in he papers.

Aber.

I do knowCraig1916: 80

Kinsmen of mine, three at the least, that have

By this so sicken’d their estates, that never

They shall abound as formerly.

Buck.

O! many

Have broke their backs with laying manors on ’emCraig1916: 84

For this great journey. What did this vanity

But minister communication of

A most poor issue?

Nor.

Grievingly I think,

The peace between the French and us not valuesCraig1916: 88

Edition: current; Page: [734]

The cost that did conclude it.

Buck.

Every man,

After the hideous storm that follow’d, was

A thing inspir’d; and, not consulting, broke

Into a general prophecy: That this tempest,Craig1916: 92

Dashing the garment of this peace, aboded

The sudden breach on’t.

Nor.

Which is budded out;

For France hath flaw’d the league, and hath attach’d

Our merchants’ goods at Bourdeaux.

Aber.

Is it thereforeCraig1916: 96

The ambassador is silenc’d?

Nor.

Marry, is’t.

Aber.

A proper title of a peace; and purchas’d

At a superfluous rate!

Buck.

Why, all this business

Our reverend cardinal carried.

Nor.

Like it your Grace,Craig1916: 100

The state takes notice of the private difference

Betwixt you and the cardinal. I advise you,—

And take it from a heart that wishes towards you

Honour and plenteous safety,—that you readCraig1916: 104

The cardinal’s malice and his potency

Together; to consider further that

What his high hatred would effect wants not

A minister in his power. You know his nature,

That he’s revengeful; and I know his swordCraig1916: 109

Hath a sharp edge: it’s long, and ’t may be said,

It reaches far; and where ’twill not extend,

Thither he darts it. Bosom up my counsel,Craig1916: 112

You’ll find it wholesome. Lo where comes that rock

That I advise your shunning.

EnterCardinal Wolsey,—the Purse borne before him,—certain of the Guard, and two Secretaries with papers. TheCardinalin his passage fixeth his eye onBuckingham,andBuckinghamon him, both full of disdain.

Wol.

The Duke of Buckingham’s surveyor, ha?

Where’s his examination?

First Secr.

Here, so please you.Craig1916: 116

Wol.

Is he in person ready?

First Secr.

Ay, please your Grace.

Wol.

Well, we shall then know more; and Buckingham

Shall lessen this big look.

[Exeunt.Wolsey,and Train.

Buck.

This butcher’s cur is venom-mouth’d, and ICraig1916: 120

Have not the power to muzzle him; therefore best

Not wake him in his slumber. A beggar’s book

Outworths a noble’s blood.

Nor.

What! are you chaf’d?

Ask God for temperance; that’s the appliance onlyCraig1916: 124

Which your disease requires.

Buck.

I read in’s looks

Matter against me; and his eye revil’d

Me, as his abject object: at this instant

He bores me with some trick: he’s gone to the king;Craig1916: 128

I’ll follow, and out-stare him.

Nor.

Stay, my lord,

And let your reason with your choler question

What ’tis you go about. To climb steep hills

Requires slow pace at first: anger is likeCraig1916: 132

A full-hot horse, who being allow’d his way,

Self-mettle tires him. Not a man in England

Can advise me like you: be to yourself

As you would to your friend.

Buck.

I’ll to the king;Craig1916: 136

And from a mouth of honour quite cry down

This Ipswich fellow’s insolence, or proclaim

There’s difference in no persons.

Nor.

Be advis’d;

Heat not a furnace for your foe so hotCraig1916: 140

That it do singe yourself. We may outrun

By violent swiftness that which we run at,

And lose by overrunning. Know you not,

The fire that mounts the liquor till it run o’er,

In seeming to augment it wastes it? Be advis’d:

I say again, there is no English soul

More stronger to direct you than yourself,

If with the sap of reason you would quench,Craig1916: 148

Or but allay, the fire of passion.

Buck.

Sir,

I am thankful to you, and I’ll go along

By your prescription: but this top-proud fellow

Whom from the flow of gall I name not, butCraig1916: 152

From sincere motions,—by intelligence,

And proofs as clear as founts in July, when

We see each grain of gravel,—I do know

To be corrupt and treasonous.

Nor.

Say not, ‘treasonous.’Craig1916: 156

Buck.

To the king I’ll say’t; and make my vouch as strong

As shore of rock. Attend. This holy fox,

Or wolf, or both,—for he is equal ravenous

As he is subtle, and as prone to mischiefCraig1916: 160

As able to perform ’t, his mind and place

Infecting one another, yea, reciprocally,

Only to show his pomp as well in France

As here at home, suggests the king our master

To this last costly treaty, the interview,Craig1916: 165

That swallow’d so much treasure, and like a glass

Did break i’ the rinsing.

Edition: current; Page: [735]

Nor.

Faith, and so it did.

Buck.

Praygive me favour, sir. This cunning cardinalCraig1916: 168

The articles o’ the combination drew

As himself pleas’d; and they were ratified

As he cried, ‘Thus let be,’ to as much end

As give a crutch to the dead. But our count-cardinalCraig1916: 172

Has done this, and ’tis well; for worthy Wolsey,

Who cannot err, he did it. Now this follows,—

Which, as I take it, is a kind of puppy

To the old dam, treason, Charles the emperor,

Under pretence to see the queen his aunt,—Craig1916: 177

For ’twas indeed his colour, but he came

To whisper Wolsey,—here makes visitation:

His fears were, that the interview betwixtCraig1916: 180

England and France might, through their amity,

Breed him some prejudice; for from this league

Peep’d harms that menac’d him. He privily

Deals with our cardinal, and, as I trow,Craig1916: 184

Which I do well; for, I am sure the emperor

Paid ere he promis’d; whereby his suit was granted

Ere it was ask’d; but when the way was made,

And pav’d with gold, the emperor thus desir’d:

That he would please to alter the king’s course,

And break the foresaid peace. Let the king know—

As soon he shall by me—that thus the cardinal

Does buy and sell his honour as he pleases,Craig1916: 192

And for his own advantage.

Nor.

I am sorry

To hear this of him; and could wish he were

Something mistaken in ’t.

Buck.

No, not a syllable:

I do pronounce him in that very shapeCraig1916: 196

He shall appear in proof.

EnterBrandon;a Sergeant-at-Arms before him.

Bran.

Your office, sergeant; execute it.

Serg.

Sir,

My Lord the Duke of Buckingham, and Earl

Of Hereford, Stafford, and Northampton, ICraig1916: 200

Arrest thee of high treason, in the name

Of our most sovereign king.

Buck.

Lo you, my lord,

The net has fall’n upon me! I shall perish

Under device and practice.

Bran.

I am sorryCraig1916: 204

To see you ta’en from liberty, to look on

The business present. ’Tis his highness’ pleasure

You shall to the Tower.

Buck.

It will help me nothing

To plead mine innocence, for that dye is on me

Which makes my whit’st part black. The will of heavenCraig1916: 209

Be done in this and all things! I obey.

O! my Lord Abergavenny, fare you well!

Bran.

Nay, he must bear you company. [ToAbergavenny.] The kingCraig1916: 212

Is pleas’d you shall to the Tower, till you know

How he determines further.

Aber.

As the duke said,

The will of heaven be done, and the king’s pleasure

By me obey’d!

Bran.

Here is a warrant fromCraig1916: 216

The king to attach Lord Montacute; and the bodies

Of the duke’s confessor, John de la Car,

One Gilbert Peck, his chancellor,—

Buck.

So, so;

These are the limbs o’ the plot: no more, I hope.

Bran.

A monk o’ the Chartreux.

Buck.

O! Nicholas Hopkins?

Bran.

He.

Buck.

My surveyor is false; the o’er-great cardinal

Hath show’d him gold. My life is spann’d already:

I am the shadow of poor Buckingham,Craig1916: 224

Whose figure even this instant cloud puts on,

By dark’ning my clear sun. My lord, farewell.

[Exeunt.

Scene II.—: The Council Chamber.

Enter theKing,leaning on theCardinal’sshoulder, the Lords of the Council, Sir Thomas Lovell, Officers, and Attendants. TheCardinalplaces himself under theKing’sfeet on the right side.

K. Hen.

My life itself, and the best heart of it,

Thanks you for this great care: I stood i’ the level

Of a full-charg’d confederacy, and give thanks

To you that chok’d it. Let be call’d before usCraig1916: 4

That gentleman of Buckingham’s; in person

I’ll hear him his confessions justify;

And point by point the treasons of his master

He shall again relate.Craig1916: 8

A noise within, crying, ‘Room for the Queen!’ EnterQueen Katharine,ushered by theDukes of NorfolkandSuffolk:she kneels. TheKingriseth from his state, takes her up, kisses, and placeth her by him.

Q. Kath.

Nay, we must longer kneel: I am a suitor.

K. Hen.

Arise, and take place by us: half your suit

Edition: current; Page: [736]

Never name to us; you have half our power:

The other moiety, ere you ask, is given;Craig1916: 12

Repeat your will, and take it.

Q. Kath.

Thank your majesty.

That you would love yourself, and in that love

Not unconsider’d leave your honour, nor

The dignity of your office, is the pointCraig1916: 16

Of my petition.

K. Hen.

Lady mine, proceed.

Q. Kath.

I am solicited, not by a few,

And those of true condition, that your subjects

Are in great grievance: there have been commissionsCraig1916: 20

Sent down among ’em, which hath flaw’d the heart

Of all their loyalties: wherein, although,

My good Lord Cardinal, they vent reproaches

Most bitterly on you, as putter-onCraig1916: 24

Of these exactions, yet the king our master,—

Whose honour heaven shield from soil!—even he escapes not

Language unmannerly; yea, such which breaks

The sides of loyalty, and almost appearsCraig1916: 28

In loud rebellion.

Nor.

Not almost appears,

It doth appear; for, upon these taxations,

The clothiers all, not able to maintain

The many to them ’longing, have put offCraig1916: 32

The spinsters, carders, fullers, weavers, who,

Unfit for other life, compell’d by hunger

And lack of other means, in desperate manner

Daring the event to the teeth, are all in uproar,Craig1916: 36

And danger serves among them.

K. Hen.

Taxation!

Wherein? and what taxation? My Lord Cardinal,

You that are blam’d for it alike with us,

Know you of this taxation?

Wol.

Please you, sir,Craig1916: 40

I know but of a single part in aught

Pertains to the state; and front but in that file

Where others tell steps with me.

Q. Kath.

No, my lord,

You know no more than others; but you frame

Things that are known alike; which are not wholesomeCraig1916: 45

To those which would not know them, and yet must

Perforce be their acquaintance. These exactions,

Whereof my sov’reign would have note, they areCraig1916: 48

Most pestilent to the hearing; and to bear ’em,

The back is sacrifice to the load. They say

They are devis’d by you, or else you suffer

Too hard an exclamation.

K. Hen.

Still exaction!Craig1916: 52

The nature of it? In what kind, let’s know,

Is this exaction?

Q. Kath.

I am much too venturous

In tempting of your patience; but am bolden’d

Under your promis’d pardon. The subjects’ griefCraig1916: 56

Comes through commissions, which compel from each

The sixth part of his substance, to be levied

Without delay; and the pretence for this

Is nam’d, your wars in France. This makes bold mouths:Craig1916: 60

Tongues spit their duties out, and cold hearts freeze

Allegiance in them; their curses now

Live where their prayers did; and it’s come to pass,

This tractable obedience is a slaveCraig1916: 64

To each incensed will. I would your highness

Would give it quick consideration, for

There is no primer business.

K. Hen.

By my life,

This is against our pleasure.

Wol.

And for me,Craig1916: 68

I have no further gone in this than by

A single voice, and that not pass’d me but

By learned approbation of the judges. If I am

Traduc’d by ignorant tongues, which neither knowCraig1916: 72

My faculties nor person, yet will be

The chronicles of my doing, let me say

’Tis but the fate of place, and the rough brake

That virtue must go through. We must not stintCraig1916: 76

Our necessary actions, in the fear

To cope malicious censurers; which ever,

As rav’nous fishes, do a vessel follow

That is new-trimm’d, but benefit no furtherCraig1916: 80

Than vainly longing. What we oft do best,

By sick interpreters, once weak ones, is

Not ours, or not allow’d; what worst, as oft,

Hitting a grosser quality, is cried upCraig1916: 84

For our best act. If we shall stand still,

In fear our motion will be mock’d or carp’d at,

We should take root here where we sit, or sit

State-statues only.

K. Hen.

Things done well,Craig1916: 88

And with a care, exempt themselves from fear;

Things done without example, in their issue

Are to be fear’d. Have you a precedent

Of this commission? I believe, not any.Craig1916: 92

We must not rend our subjects from our laws,

And stick them in our will. Sixth part of each?

A trembling contribution! Why, we take

From every tree, lop, bark, and part o’ the timber;Craig1916: 96

Edition: current; Page: [737]

And, though we leave it with a root, thus hack’d,

The air will drink the sap. To every county

Where this is question’d, send our letters, with

Free pardon to each man that has deniedCraig1916: 100

The force of this commission. Pray, look to ’t;

I put it to your care.

Wol.

[To the Secretary.] A word with you.

Let there be letters writ to every shire,

Of the king’s grace and pardon. The griev’d commonsCraig1916: 104

Hardly conceive of me; let it be nois’d

That through our intercession this revokement

And pardon comes: I shall anon advise you

Further in the proceeding.

[Exit Secretary.

Enter Surveyor.

Q. Kath.

I am sorry that the Duke of BuckinghamCraig1916: 109

Is run in your displeasure.

K. Hen.

It grieves many:

The gentleman is learn’d, and a most rare speaker,

To nature none more bound; his training such

That he may furnish and instruct great teachers,

And never seek for aid out of himself. Yet see,

When these so noble benefits shall prove

Not well dispos’d, the mind growing once corrupt,Craig1916: 116

They turn to vicious forms, ten times more ugly

Than ever they were fair. This man so complete,

Who was enroll’d ’mongst wonders, and when we,

Almost with ravish’d listening, could not find

His hour of speech a minute; he, my lady,Craig1916: 121

Hath into monstrous habits put the graces

That once were his, and is become as black

As if besmear’d in hell. Sit by us; you shall hear—Craig1916: 124

This was his gentleman in trust—of him

Things to strike honour sad. Bid him recount

The fore-recited practices; whereof

We cannot feel too little, hear too much.Craig1916: 128

Wol.

Stand forth; and with bold spirit relate what you,

Most like a careful subject, have collected

Out of the Duke of Buckingham.

K. Hen.

Speak freely.

Surv.

First, it was usual with him, every day

It would infect his speech, that if the kingCraig1916: 133

Should without issue die, he’d carry it so

To make the sceptre his. These very words

I’ve heard him utter to his son-in-law,Craig1916: 136

Lord Abergavenny, to whom by oath he menac’d

Revenge upon the cardinal.

Wol.

Please your highness, note

This dangerous conception in this point.

Not friended by his wish, to your high person

His will is most malignant; and it stretchesCraig1916: 141

Beyond you, to your friends.

Q. Kath.

My learn’d Lord Cardinal,

Deliver all with charity.

K. Hen.

Speak on:

How grounded he his title to the crownCraig1916: 144

Upon our fail? to this point hast thou heard him

At any time speak aught?

Surv.

He was brought to this

By a vain prophecy of Nicholas Hopkins.

K. Hen.

What was that Hopkins?

Surv.

Sir, a Chartreux friar,

His confessor, who fed him every minuteCraig1916: 149

With words of sovereignty.

K. Hen.

How know’st thou this?

Surv.

Not long before your highness sped to France,

The duke being at the Rose, within the parish

Saint Lawrence Poultney, did of me demandCraig1916: 153

What was the speech among the Londoners

Concerning the French journey: I replied,

Men fear’d the French would prove perfidious,

To the king’s danger. Presently the dukeCraig1916: 157

Said, ’twas the fear, indeed; and that he doubted

’Twould prove the verity of certain words

Spoke by a holy monk; ‘that oft,’ says he,Craig1916: 160

‘Hath sent to me, wishing me to permit

John de la Car, my chaplain, a choice hour

To hear from him a matter of some moment:

Whom after under the confession’s sealCraig1916: 164

He solemnly had sworn, that what he spoke,

My chaplain to no creature living but

To me should utter, with demure confidence

This pausingly ensu’d: neither the king nor ’s heirs—Craig1916: 168

Tell you the duke—shall prosper: bid him strive

To gain the love o’ the commonalty: the duke

Shall govern England.’

Q. Kath.

If I know you well,

You were the duke’s surveyor, and lost your officeCraig1916: 172

On the complaint o’ the tenants: take good heed

You charge not in your spleen a noble person,

And spoil your nobler soul. I say, take heed;

Yes, heartily beseech you.

K. Hen.

Let him on.Craig1916: 176

Go forward.

Surv.

On my soul, I’ll speak but truth.

I told my lord the duke, by the devil’s illusions

Edition: current; Page: [738]

The monk might be deceiv’d; and that ’twas dangerous for him

To ruminate on this so far, untilCraig1916: 180

It forg’d him some design, which, being believ’d,

It was much like to do. He answer’d, ‘Tush!

It can do me no damage;’ adding further,

That had the king in his last sickness fail’d,Craig1916: 184

The cardinal’s and Sir Thomas Lovell’s heads

Should have gone off.

K. Hen.

Ha! what, so rank? Ah, ha!

There’s mischief in this man. Canst thou say further?

Surv.

I can, my liege.

K. Hen.

Proceed.

Surv.

Being at Greenwich,

After your highness had reprov’d the dukeCraig1916: 189

About Sir William Blomer,—

K. Hen.

I remember

Of such a time: being my sworn servant,

The duke retain’d him his. But on; what hence?Craig1916: 192

Surv.

‘If,’ quoth he, ‘I for this had been committed,

As, to the Tower, I thought, I would have play’d

The part my father meant to act upon

The usurper Richard; who, being at Salisbury,

Made suit to come in ’s presence; which if granted,Craig1916: 197

As he made semblance of his duty, would

Have put his knife into him.’

K. Hen

A giant traitor!

Wol.

Now, madam, may his highness live in freedom,Craig1916: 200

And this man out of prison?

Q. Kath.

God mend all!

K. Hen.

There’s something more would out of thee? what sayst?

Surv.

After ‘the duke his father,’ with ‘the knife,’

He stretch’d him, and, with one hand on his dagger,Craig1916: 204

Another spread on’s breast, mounting his eyes,

He did discharge a horrible oath; whose tenour

Was, were he evil us’d, he would outgo

His father by as much as a performanceCraig1916: 208

Does an irresolute purpose.

K. Hen.

There’s his period;

To sheathe his knife in us. He is attach’d;

Call him to present trial: if he may

Find mercy in the law, ’tis his; if none,Craig1916: 212

Let him not seek’t of us: by day and night!

He’s traitor to the height.

[Exeunt.

Scene III.—: A Room in the Palace.

Enter the Lord Chamberlain andLord Sands.

Cham.

Is’t possible the spells of France should juggle

Men into such strange mysteries?

Sands.

New customs,

Though they be never so ridiculous,

Nay, let ’em be unmanly, yet are follow’d.Craig1916: 4

Cham.

As far as I see, all the good our English

Have got by the late voyage is but merely

A fit or two o’ the face; but they are shrewd ones;

For when they hold ’em, you would swear directlyCraig1916: 8

Their very noses had been counsellors

To Pepin or Clotharius, they keep state so.

Sands.

They have all new legs, and lame ones: one would take it,

That never saw ’em pace before, the spavinCraig1916: 12

Or springhalt reign’d among ’em.

Cham.

Death! my lord,

Their clothes are after such a pagan cut too,

That, sure, they’ve worn out Christendom.

EnterSir Thomas Lovell.

How now!

What news, Sir Thomas Lovell?

Lov.

Faith, my lord,

I hear of none, but the new proclamationCraig1916: 17

That’s clapp’d upon the court-gate.

Cham.

What is’t for?

Lov.

The reformation of our travell’d gallants,

That fill the court with quarrels, talk, and tailors.Craig1916: 20

Cham.

I am glad ’tis there: now I would pray our monsieurs

To think an English courtier may be wise,

And never see the Louvre.

Lov.

They must either—

For so run the conditions—leave those remnantsCraig1916: 24

Of fool and feather that they got in France,

With all their honourable points of ignorance

Pertaining thereunto,—as fights and fireworks;

Abusing better men than they can be,Craig1916: 28

Out of a foreign wisdom;—renouncing clean

The faith they have in tennis and tall stockings,

Short blister’d breeches, and those types of travel,

And understand again like honest men;Craig1916: 32

Or pack to their old playfellows: there, I take it,

They may, cum privilegio, wear away

The lag end of their lewdness, and be laugh’d at.

Sands.

’Tis time to give ’em physic, their diseasesCraig1916: 36

Are grown so catching.

Cham.

What a loss our ladies

Will have of these trim vanities!

Lov.

Ay, marry,

Edition: current; Page: [739]

There will be woe indeed, lords: the sly whoresons

Have got a speeding trick to lay down ladies;Craig1916: 40

A French song and a fiddle has no fellow.

Sands.

The devil fiddle ’em! I am glad they’re going:

For, sure, there’s no converting of ’em: now

An honest country lord, as I am, beatenCraig1916: 44

A long time out of play, may bring his plainsong

And have an hour of hearing; and, by’r lady,

Held current music too.

Cham.

Well said, Lord Sands;

Your colt’s tooth is not cast yet.

Sands.

No, my lord;Craig1916: 48

Nor shall not, while I have a stump.

Cham.

Sir Thomas,

Whither were you a-going?

Lov.

To the cardinal’s:

Your lordship is a guest too.

Cham.

O! ’tis true:

This night he makes a supper, and a great one,

To many lords and ladies; there will beCraig1916: 53

The beauty of this kingdom, I’ll assure you.

Lov.

That churchman bears a bounteous mind indeed,

A hand as fruitful as the land that feeds us;Craig1916: 56

His dews fall everywhere.

Cham.

No doubt he’s noble;

He had a black mouth that said other of him.

Sands.

He may, my lord; he has wherewithal: in him

Sparing would show a worse sin than ill doctrine:Craig1916: 60

Men of his way should be most liberal;

They are set here for examples.

Cham.

True, they are so;

But few now give so great ones. My barge stays;

Your lordship shall along. Come, good Sir Thomas,Craig1916: 64

We shall be late else; which I would not be,

For I was spoke to, with Sir Henry Guildford,

This night to be comptrollers.

Sands.

I am your lordship’s.

[Exeunt.

Scene IV.—: The Presence-chamber in York-Place.

Hautboys. A small table under a state forCardinal Wolsey,a longer table for the guests. Enter, at one door,Anne Bullen,and divers Lords, Ladies, and Gentlewomen, as guests; at another door, enterSir Henry Guildford.

EnterBuckinghamfrom his arraignment; Tipstaves before him; the axe with the edge towards him; halberds on each side: with himSir Thomas Lovell, Sir Nicholas Vaux, Sir William Sands,and common people.

Sec. Gent.

Let’s stand close, and behold him.

Buck.

All good people,

You that thus far have come to pity me,Craig1916: 56

Hear what I say, and then go home and lose me.

I have this day receiv’d a traitor’s judgment,

And by that name must die: yet, heaven bear witness,

And if I have a conscience, let it sink me,Craig1916: 60

Even as the axe falls, if I be not faithful!

The law I bear no malice for my death,

Edition: current; Page: [742]

’T has done upon the premises but justice;

But those that sought it I could wish more Christians:Craig1916: 64

Be what they will, I heartily forgive ’em.

Yet let ’em look they glory not in mischief,

Nor build their evils on the graves of great men;

For then my guiltless blood must cry against ’em.Craig1916: 68

For further life in this world I ne’er hope,

Nor will I sue, although the king have mercies

More than I dare make faults. You few that lov’d me,

And dare be bold to weep for Buckingham,Craig1916: 72

His noble friends and fellows, whom to leave

Is only bitter to him, only dying,

Go with me, like good angels, to my end;

And, as the long divorce of steel falls on me,Craig1916: 76

Make of your prayers one sweet sacrifice,

And lift my soul to heaven. Lead on, o’ God’s name.

Lov.

I do beseech your Grace, for charity,

If ever any malice in your heartCraig1916: 80

Were hid against me, now to forgive me frankly.

Buck.

Sir Thomas Lovell, I as free forgive you

As I would be forgiven: I forgive all.

There cannot be those numberless offencesCraig1916: 84

’Gainst me that I cannot take peace with: no black envy

Shall mark my grave. Commend me to his Grace;

And, if he speak of Buckingham, pray, tell him

You met him half in heaven. My vows and prayersCraig1916: 88

Yet are the king’s; and, till my soul forsake,

Shall cry for blessings on him: may he live

Longer than I have time to tell his years!

Ever belov’d and loving may his rule be!Craig1916: 92

And when old time shall lead him to his end,

Goodness and he fill up one monument!

Lov.

To the water side I must conduct your Grace;

Then give my charge up to Sir Nicholas Vaux,

Who undertakes you to your end.

Vaux.

Prepare there!Craig1916: 97

The duke is coming: see the barge be ready;

And fit it with such furniture as suits

The greatness of his person.

Buck.

Nay, Sir Nicholas,Craig1916: 100

Let it alone; my state now will but mock me.

When I came hither, I was Lord High Constable,

And Duke of Buckingham; now, poor Edward Bohun:

Yet I am richer than my base accusers,Craig1916: 104

That never knew what truth meant: I now seal it;

And with that blood will make them one day groan for’t.

My noble father, Henry of Buckingham,

Who first rais’d head against usurping Richard,

Flying for succour to his servant Banister,Craig1916: 109

Being distress’d, was by that wretch betray’d,

And without trial fell: God’s peace be with him!

Henry the Seventh succeeding, truly pityingCraig1916: 112

My father’s loss, like a most royal prince,

Restor’d me to my honours, and, out of ruins,

Made my name once more noble. Now his son,

Henry the Eighth, life, honour, name, and allCraig1916: 116

That made me happy, at one stroke has taken

For ever from the world. I had my trial,

And, must needs say, a noble one; which makes me

A little happier than my wretched father:Craig1916: 120

Yet thus far we are one in fortunes; both

Fell by our servants, by those men welov’d most:

A most unnatural and faithless service!

Heaven has an end in all; yet, you that hear me,

This from a dying man receive as certain:Craig1916: 125

Where you are liberal of your loves and counsels

Be sure you be not loose; for those you make friends

And give your hearts to, when they once perceiveCraig1916: 128

The least rub in your fortunes, fall away

Like water from ye, never found again

But where they mean to sink ye. All good people,

Pray for me! I must now forsake ye: the last hourCraig1916: 132

Of my long weary life is come upon me.

Farewell:

And when you would say something that is sad,

Speak how I fell. I have done; and God forgive me!

[ExeuntBuckinghamand Train.

First Gent.

O! this is full of pity! Sir, it calls,

I fear, too many curses on their heads

That were the authors.

Sec. Gent.

If the duke be guiltless,

’Tis full of woe; yet I can give you inklingCraig1916: 140

Of an ensuing evil, if it fall,

Greater than this.

First Gent.

Good angels keep it from us!

What may it be? You do not doubt my faith, sir?

Sec. Gent.

This secret is so weighty, ’twill requireCraig1916: 144

A strong faith to conceal it.

First Gent.

Let me have it;

I do not talk much.

Sec. Gent.

I am confident:

You shall, sir. Did you not of late days hear

A buzzing of a separationCraig1916: 148

Between the king and Katharine?

Edition: current; Page: [743]

First Gent.

Yes, but it held not;

For when the king once heard it, out of anger

He sent command to the lord mayor straight

To stop the rumour, and allay those tonguesCraig1916: 152

That durst disperse it.

Sec. Gent.

But that slander, sir,

Is found a truth now; for it grows again

Fresher than e’er it was; and held for certain

The king will venture at it. Either the cardinal,

Or some about him near, have, out of maliceCraig1916: 157

To the good queen, possess’d him with a scruple

That will undo her: to confirm this too,

Cardinal Campeius is arriv’d, and lately;Craig1916: 160

As all think, for this business.

First Gent.

’Tis the cardinal;

And merely to revenge him on the emperor

For not bestowing on him, at his asking,

The archbishopric of Toledo, this is purpos’d.

Sec. Gent.

I think you have hit the mark: but is’t not cruelCraig1916: 165

That she should feel the smart of this? The cardinal

Will have his will, and she must fall.

First Gent.

’Tis woeful.

We are too open here to argue this;Craig1916: 168

Let’s think in private more.

[Exeunt.

Scene II.—: An Antechamber in the Palace.

Enter the Lord Chamberlain, reading a letter.

Cham.

My lord, The horses your lordship sent for, with all the care I had, I saw well chosen, ridden, and furnished. They were young and handsome, and of the best breed in the north. When they were ready to set out for London, a man of my Lord Cardinal’s, by commission and main power, took them from me; with this reason: His master would be served before a subject, if not before the king; which stopped our mouths, sir.

Scene IV.—: A Hall in Black-Friars.

Trumpets, sennet, and cornets. Enter two Vergers, with short silver wands; next them, two Scribes, in the habit of doctors; after them, theArchbishop of Canterbury,alone; after him, theBishops of Lincoln, Ely, Rochester,andSaint Asaph;next them, at some small distance, follows a Gentleman bearing the purse, with the great seal, and a cardinal’s hat; then two Priests, bearing each a silver cross; then a Gentleman Usher bare-headed, accompanied with a Sergeant-at-Arms, bearing a silver mace; then two Gentlemen, bearing two great silver pillars; after them, side by side, the twoCardinals;two Noblemen with the sword and mace. Then enter theKingandQueen,and their Trains. TheKingtakes place under the cloth of state; the twoCardinalssit under him as judges. TheQueentakes place at some distance from theKing.TheBishopsplace themselves on each side the court, in manner of a consistory; below them, the Scribes. The Lords sit next theBishops.The Crier and the rest of the Attendants stand in convenient order about the Stage.

Wol.

Whilst our commission from Rome is read,

Let silence be commanded.

K. Hen.

What’s the need?

It hath already publicly been read,

And on all sides the authority allow’d;Craig1916: 4

You may then spare that time.

Wol.

Be’t so. Proceed.

Scribe

Say, Henry King of England, come into the court.

Crier.

Henry King of England, come into the court.

K. Hen.

Here.

Scribe.

Say, Katharine Queen of England, come into the court.

Crier.

Katharine Queen of England, come into the court.

[TheQueenmakes no answer, rises out of her chair, goes about the court, comes to theKing,and kneels at his feet; then speaks.

The Order of the Coronation.

4. Mayor of London, bearing the mace. Then Garter, in his coat of arms, and on his head a gilt copper crown.

5. Marquess Dorset,bearing a sceptre of gold, on his head a demi-coronal of gold. With him, theEarl of Surrey,bearing the rod of silver with the dove, crowned with an earl’s coronet. Collars of SS.

6. Duke of Suffolk,in his robe of estate, his coronet on his head, bearing a long white wand, as high-steward. With him, theDuke of Norfolk,with the rod of marshalship, a coronet on his head. Collars of SS.

7. A canopy borne by four of the Cinque-ports; under it, theQueenin her robe; in her hair richly adorned with pearl, crowned. On each side of her, theBishops of LondonandWinchester.

9. Certain Ladies or Countesses, with plain circlets of gold without flowers.

They pass over the stage in order and state.

Sec. Gen.

A royal train, believe me. These I know;Craig1916: 37

Who’s that that bears the sceptre?

First Gen.

Marquess Dorset:

And that the Earl of Surrey with the rod.

Sec. Gen.

A bold brave gentleman. That should beCraig1916: 40

The Duke of Suffolk?

First Gen.

’Tis the same; high-steward.

Sec. Gen.

And that my Lord of Norfolk?

First Gen.

Yes.

Sec. Gen.

[Looking on theQueen.] Heaven bless thee!

Thou hast the sweetest face I ever look’d on.

Sir, as I have a soul, she is an angel;Craig1916: 44

Our king has all the Indies in his arms,

And more and richer, when he strains that lady:

I cannot blame his conscience.

First Gen.

They that bear

The cloth of honour over her, are four baronsCraig1916: 48

Of the Cinque-ports.

Sec. Gen.

Those men are happy; and so are all are near her.

I take it, she that carries up the train

Is that old noble lady, Duchess of Norfolk.Craig1916: 52

First Gen.

It is; and all the rest are countesses.

Sec. Gen.

Their coronets say so. These are stars indeed;

And sometimes falling ones.

First Gen.

No more of that.

[Exit Procession, with a great flourish of trumpets.

Enter a third Gentleman.

God save you, sir! Where have you been broiling?Craig1916: 56

Third Gen.

Among the crowd i’ the Abbey; where a finger

Could not be wedg’d in more: I am stifled

With the mere rankness of their joy.

Sec. Gen.

You saw

The ceremony?

Third Gen.

That I did.

First Gen.

How was it?Craig1916: 60

Third Gen

Well worth the seeing.

Sec. Gen.

Good sir, speak it to us.

Third Gen.

As well as I am able. The rich stream

Of lords and ladies, having brought the queen

To a prepar’d place in the choir, fell offCraig1916: 64

A distance from her; while her Grace sat down

To rest awhile, some half an hour or so,

In a rich chair of state, opposing freely

The beauty of her person to the people.Craig1916: 68

Believe me, sir, she is the goodliest woman

That ever lay by man: which when the people

Had the full view of, such a noise arose

As the shrouds make at sea in a stiff tempest,Craig1916: 72

As loud, and to as many tunes: hats, cloaks,—

Doublets, I think,—flew up; and had their faces

Been loose, this day they had been lost. Such joy

I never saw before. Great-bellied women,Craig1916: 76

That had not half a week to go, like rams

In the old time of war, would shake the press,

And make ’em reel before them. No man living

Could say, ‘This is my wife,’ there; all were wovenCraig1916: 80

So strangely in one piece.

Sec. Gen.

But, what follow’d?

Third Gen.

At length her Grace rose, and with modest paces

Came to the altar; where she kneel’d, and, saint-like,

Cast her fair eyes to heaven and pray’d devoutly.Craig1916: 84

Then rose again and bow’d her to the people:

When by the Archbishop of Canterbury

She had all the royal makings of a queen;

As holy oil, Edward Confessor’s crown,Craig1916: 88

The rod, and bird of peace, and all such emblems

Laid nobly on her: which perform’d, the choir,

With all the choicest music of the kingdom,

Together sung Te Deum. So she parted,Craig1916: 92

And with the same full state pac’d back again

To York-place, where the feast is held.

First Gen.

Sir,

You must no more call it York-place, that’s past;

For, since the cardinal fell, that title’s lost:Craig1916: 96

’Tis now the king’s, and call’d Whitehall.

Third Gen.

I know it;

But ’tis so lately alter’d that the old name

Is fresh about me.

Sec. Gen.

What two reverend bishops

Were those that went on each side of the queen?Craig1916: 100

Third Gen.

Stokesly and Gardiner; the one of Winchester,—

Newly preferr’d from the king’s secretary,—

The other, London.

Sec. Gen.

He of Winchester

Is held no great good lover of the archbishop’s,

The virtuous Cranmer.

Third Gen.

All the land knows that:

Edition: current; Page: [759]

However, yet there’s no great breach; when it comes,Craig1916: 106

Cranmer will find a friend will not shrink from him.

Sec. Gen.

Who may that be, I pray you?

Third Gen.

Thomas Cromwell:

A man in much esteem with the king, and truly

A worthy friend. The king

Has made him master o’ the jewel house,

And one, already, of the privy-council.Craig1916: 112

Sec. Gen.

He will deserve more.

Third Gen.

Yes, without all doubt.

Come, gentlemen, ye shall go my way, which

Is to the court, and there ye shall be my guests:

Something I can command. As I walk thither,

I’ll tell ye more.

Both.

You may command us, sir.Craig1916: 117

[Exeunt.

Scene II.—: Kimbolton.

EnterKatharine,Dowager, sick: led betweenGriffithandPatience.

Grif.

How does your Grace?

Kath.

O Griffith! sick to death!

My legs, like loaden branches, bow to the earth,

Willing to leave their burden. Reach a chair:

So; now, methinks, I feel a little ease.Craig1916: 4

Didst thou not tell me, Griffith, as thou ledd’st me,

That the great child of honour, Cardinal Wolsey,

Was dead?

Grif.

Yes, madam; but I think your Grace,

Out of the pain you suffer’d, gave no ear to’t.Craig1916: 8

Kath.

Prithee, good Griffith, tell me how he died:

If well, he stepp’d before me, happily,

For my example.

Grif.

Well, the voice goes, madam:

For after the stout Earl NorthumberlandCraig1916: 12

Arrested him at York, and brought him forward,

As a man sorely tainted, to his answer,

He fell sick suddenly, and grew so ill

He could not sit his mule.

Kath.

Alas! poor man.Craig1916: 16

Grif.

At last, with easy roads, he came to Leicester;

Lodg’d in the abbey, where the reverend abbot,

With all his covent, honourably receiv’d him:

To whom he gave these words: ‘O! father abbot,Craig1916: 20

An old man, broken with the storms of state,

Is come to lay his weary bones among ye;

Give him a little earth for charity.’

So went to bed, where eagerly his sicknessCraig1916: 24

Pursu’d him still; and three nights after this,

About the hour of eight,—which he himself

Foretold should be his last,—full of repentance,

Continual meditations, tears, and sorrows,Craig1916: 28

He gave his honours to the world again,

His blessed part to heaven, and slept in peace.

Kath.

So may he rest; his faults lie gently on him!

Yet thus far, Griffith, give me leave to speak him,Craig1916: 32

And yet with charity. He was a man

Of an unbounded stomach, ever ranking

Himself with princes; one, that by suggestion

Tied all the kingdom; simony was fair-play;Craig1916: 36

His own opinion was his law; i’ the presence

He would say untruths, and be ever double

Both in his words and meaning. He was never,

But where he meant to ruin, pitiful;Craig1916: 40

His promises were, as he then was, mighty;

But his performance, as he is now, nothing:

Of his own body he was ill, and gave

The clergy ill example.

Grif.

Noble madam,Craig1916: 44

Men’s evil manners live in brass; their virtues

We write in water. May it please your highness

To hear me speak his good now?

Kath.

Yes, good Griffith,

I were malicious else.

Grif.

This cardinal,Craig1916: 48

Though from a humble stock, undoubtedly

Was fashion’d to much honour from his cradle.

He was a scholar, and a ripe and good one;

Exceeding wise, fair-spoken, and persuading;Craig1916: 52

Lofty and sour to them that lov’d him not;

But, to those men that sought him sweet as summer.

And though he were unsatisfied in getting,—

Which was a sin,—yet in bestowing, madam,Craig1916: 56

He was most princely. Ever witness for him

Those twins of learning that he rais’d in you,

Ipswich, and Oxford! one of which fell with him,

Unwilling to outlive the good that did it;Craig1916: 60

The other, though unfinish’d, yet so famous,

So excellent in art, and still so rising,

That Christendom shall ever speak his virtue.

His overthrow heap’d happiness upon him;Craig1916: 64

For then, and not till then, he felt himself,

And found the blessedness of being little:

And, to add greater honours to his age

Than man could give him, he died fearing God.

Kath.

After my death I wish no other herald,

No other speaker of my living actions,

To keep mine honour from corruption,

But such an honest chronicler as Griffith.Craig1916: 72

Whom I most hated living, thou hast made me,

With thy religious truth and modesty,

Now in his ashes honour. Peace be with him!

Edition: current; Page: [760]

Patience, be near me still; and set me lower:Craig1916: 76

I have not long to trouble thee. Good Griffith,

Cause the musicians play me that sad note

I nam’d my knell, whilst I sit meditating

On that celestial harmony I go to.Craig1916: 80

[Sad and solemn music.

Grif.

She is asleep: good wench, let’s sit down quiet,

For fear we wake her: softly, gentle Patience.

The Vision. Enter, solemnly tripping one after another, six Personages, clad in white robes, wearing on their heads garlands of bays, and golden vizards on their faces; branches of bays or palm in their hands. They first congee unto her, then dance; and, at certain changes, the first two hold a spare garland over her head; at which, the other four make reverend curtsies: then, the two that held the garland deliver the same to the other next two, who observe the same order in their changes, and holding the garland over her head: which done, they deliver the same garland to the last two, who likewise observe the same order, at which,—as it were by inspiration,—she makes in her sleep signs of rejoicing, and holdeth up her hands to heaven: and so in their dancing they vanish, carrying the garland with them. The music continues.

Kath.

Spirits of peace, where are ye? Are ye all gone,

And leave me here in wretchedness behind ye?

Grif.

Madam, we are here.

Kath.

It is not you I call for:Craig1916: 85

Saw ye none enter since I slept?

Grif.

None, madam.

Kath.

No? Saw you not, even now, a blessed troop

Invite me to a banquet; whose bright facesCraig1916: 88

Cast thousand beams upon me, like the sun?

They promis’d me eternal happiness,

And brought me garlands, Griffith, which I feel

I am not worthy yet to wear: I shall assuredly.

Grif.

I am most joyful, madam, such good dreamsCraig1916: 93

Possess your fancy.

Kath.

Bid the music leave,

They are harsh and heavy to me.

[Musicceases.

Pat.

Do you note

How much her Grace is alter’d on the sudden?

How long her face is drawn? How pale she looks,Craig1916: 97

And of an earthy cold? Mark her eyes!

Grif.

She is going, wench. Pray, pray.

Pat.

Heaven comfort her!Craig1916: 100

Enter a Messenger.

Mess.

An’t like your Grace,—

Kath.

You are a saucy fellow:

Deserve we no more reverence?

Grif.

You are to blame,

Knowing she will not lose her wonted greatness,

To use so rude behaviour; go to, kneel.Craig1916: 104

Mess.

I humbly do entreat your highness pardon;

My haste made me unmannerly. There is staying

A gentleman, sent from the king, to see you.

Kath.

Admit him entrance, Griffith: but this fellowCraig1916: 108

Let me ne’er see again.

[ExeuntGriffithand Messenger.

Re-enterGriffith,withCapucius.

If my sight fail not,

You should be lord ambassador from the emperor,

My royal nephew, and your name Capucius.

Cap

Madam, the same; your servant.

Kath.

O my lord!Craig1916: 112

The times and titles now are alter’d strangely

With me since first you knew me. But, I pray you,

What is your pleasure with me?

Cap.

Noble lady,

First, mine own service to your Grace; the next,Craig1916: 116

The king’s request that I would visit you;

Who grieves much for your weakness, and by me

Sends you his princely commendations,

And heartily entreats you take good comfort.Craig1916: 120

Kath.

O! my good lord, that comfort comes too late;

’Tis like a pardon after execution:

That gentle physic, given in time, had cur’d me;

But now I am past all comforts here but prayers.

How does his highness?

Cap.

Madam, in good health.Craig1916: 125

Kath.

So may he ever do! and ever flourish,

When I shall dwell with worms, and my poor name

Banish’d the kingdom. Patience, is that letter

I caus’d you write, yet sent away?

Pat.

No, madam.Craig1916: 129

[Giving it toKatharine.

Kath.

Sir, I most humbly pray you to deliver

This to my lord the king.

Cap.

Most willing, madam.

Kath.

In which I have commended to his goodnessCraig1916: 132

Edition: current; Page: [761]

The model of our chaste loves, his young daughter:

The dews of heaven fall thick in blessings on her!

Beseeching him to give her virtuous breeding,—

She is young, and of a noble modest nature,Craig1916: 136

I hope she will deserve well,—and a little

To love her for her mother’s sake, that lov’d him,

Heaven knows how dearly. My next poor petition

Is, that his noble Grace would have some pity

Upon my wretched women, that so longCraig1916: 141

Have follow’d both my fortunes faithfully:

Of which there is not one, I dare avow,—

And now I should not lie,—but will deserve,Craig1916: 144

For virtue, and true beauty of the soul,

For honesty and decent carriage,

A right good husband, let him be a noble;

And, sure, those men are happy that shall have ’em.Craig1916: 148

The last is, for my men: they are the poorest,

But poverty could never draw ’em from me;

That they may have their wages duly paid ’em,

And something over to remember me by:Craig1916: 152

If heaven had pleas’d to have given me longer life

And able means, we had not parted thus.

These are the whole contents: and, good my lord,

By that you love the dearest in this world,Craig1916: 156

As you wish Christian peace to souls departed,

Stand these poor people’s friend, and urge the king

To do me this last right.

Cap.

By heaven, I will,

Or let me lose the fashion of a man!Craig1916: 160

Kath.

I thank you, honest lord. Remember me

In all humility unto his highness:

Say his long trouble now is passing

Out of this world; tell him, in death I bless’d him;Craig1916: 164

For so I will. Mine eyes grow dim. Farewell,

My lord. Griffith, farewell. Nay, Patience,

You must not leave me yet: I must to bed;

Call in more women. When I am dead, good wench,Craig1916: 168

Let me be us’d with honour: strew me over

With maiden flowers, that all the world may know

I was a chaste wife to my grave: embalm me,

Then lay me forth: although unqueen’d, yet likeCraig1916: 172

A queen, and daughter to a king, inter me.

I can no more.

[Exeunt, leadingKatharine.

ACT V.

Scene I.—: London. A Gallery in the Palace.

EnterGardiner,Bishop of Winchester, a Page with a torch before him, met bySir Thomas Lovell.

Gar.

It’s one o’clock, boy, is’t not?

Boy.

It hath struck.

Gar.

These should be hours for necessities,

Not for delights; times to repair our nature

With comforting repose, and not for usCraig1916: 4

To waste these times. Good hour of night, Sir Thomas!

Whither so late?

Lov.

Came you from the king, my lord?

Gar.

I did, Sir Thomas; and left him at primero

With the Duke of Suffolk.

Lov.

I must to him too,Craig1916: 8

Before he go to bed. I’ll take my leave.

Gar.

Not yet, Sir Thomas Lovell. What ’s the matter?

It seems you are in haste: an if there be

No great offence belongs to’t, give your friend

Some touch of your late business: affairs, that walk—Craig1916: 13

As they say spirits do—at midnight, have

In them a wilder nature than the business

That seeks dispatch by day.

Lov.

My lord, I love you,Craig1916: 16

And durst commend a secret to your ear

Much weightier than this work. The queen’s in labour,

They say, in great extremity; and fear’d

She’ll with the labour end.

Gar.

The fruit she goes withCraig1916: 20

I pray for heartily, that it may find

Good time, and live: but for the stock, Sir Thomas,

I wish it grubb’d up now.

Lov.

Methinks I could

Cry the amen; and yet my conscience saysCraig1916: 24

She’s a good creature, and, sweet lady, does

Deserve our better wishes.

Gar.

But, sir, sir,

Hear me, Sir Thomas: you’re a gentleman

Of mine own way; I know you wise, religious;

And, let me tell you, it will ne’er be well,Craig1916: 29

’Twill not, Sir Thomas Lovell, take ’t of me,

Till Cranmer, Cromwell, her two hands, and she,

Sleep in their graves.

Lov.

Now, sir, you speak of twoCraig1916: 32

The most remark’d i’ the kingdom. As for Cromwell,

Beside that of the jewel-house, is made master

O’ the rolls, and the king’s secretary; further, sir,

Edition: current; Page: [762]

Stands in the gap and trade of moe preferments,

With which the time will load him. The archbishopCraig1916: 37

Is the king’s hand and tongue; and who dare speak

One syllable against him?

Gar.

Yes, yes, Sir Thomas,

There are that dare; and I myself have ventur’d

To speak my mind of him: and indeed this day,

Sir,—I may tell it you,—I think I have

Incens’d the lords o’ the council that he is—

For so I know he is, they know he is—Craig1916: 44

A most arch heretic, a pestilence

That does infect the land: with which they mov’d

Have broken with the king; who hath so far

Given ear to our complaint,—of his great grace

And princely care, foreseeing those fell mischiefs

Our reasons laid before him,—hath commanded

To-morrow morning to the council-boardCraig1916: 51

He be convented. He’s a rank weed, Sir Thomas,

And we must root him out. From your affairs

I hinder you too long: good-night, Sir Thomas!

Lov.

Many good-nights, my lord. I rest your servant.

[ExeuntGardinerand Page.

Enter theKingandSuffolk.

K. Hen.

Charles, I will play no more to-night;Craig1916: 56

My mind’s not on’t; you are too hard for me.

Suf.

Sir, I did never win of you before.

K. Hen.

But little, Charles;

Nor shall not when my fancy’s on my play.Craig1916: 60

Now, Lovell, from the queen what is the news?

Lov.

I could not personally deliver to her

What you commanded me, but by her woman

I sent your message; who return’d her thanksCraig1916: 64

In the great’st humbleness, and desir’d your highness

Most heartily to pray for her.

K Hen.

What sayst thou, ha?

To pray for her? what! is she crying out?

Lov.

So said her woman; and that her sufferance madeCraig1916: 68

Almost each pang a death.

K. Hen.

Alas! good lady.

Suf.

God safely quit her of her burden, and

With gentle travail, to the gladding of

Your highness with an heir!

K. Hen.

’Tis midnight, Charles;Craig1916: 72

Prithee, to bed; and in thy prayers remember

The estate of my poor queen. Leave me alone;

For I must think of that which company

Would not be friendly to.

Suf.

I wish your highnessCraig1916: 76

A quiet night; and my good mistress will

Remember in my prayers.

K. Hen.

Charles, good-night.

[ExitSuffolk.

EnterSir Anthony Denny.

Well, Sir, what follows?

Den.

Sir, I have brought my lord the archbishop,Craig1916: 80

As you commanded me.

K. Hen.

Ha! Canterbury?

Den.

Ay, my good lord.

K. Hen.

’Tis true: where is he, Denny?

Den.

He attends your highness’ pleasure.

K. Hen.

Bring him to us.

[ExitDenny.

Lov.

[Aside.] This is about that which the bishop spake:Craig1916: 84

I am happily come hither.

Re-enterDenny,withCranmer.

K. Hen.

Avoid the gallery.

[Lovellseems to stay.

Ha! I have said. Begone.

What!—

[ExeuntLovellandDenny.

Cran.

I am fearful. Wherefore frowns he thus?Craig1916: 88

’Tis his aspect of terror: all’s not well.

K. Hen.

How now, my lord! You do desire to know

Wherefore I sent for you.

Cran.

[Kneeling.] It is my duty

To attend your highness’ pleasure.

K. Hen.

Pray you, arise,

My good and gracious Lord of Canterbury.Craig1916: 93

Come, you and I must walk a turn together;

I have news to tell you: come, come, give me your hand.

Ah! my good lord, I grieve at what I speak,Craig1916: 96

And am right sorry to repeat what follows.

I have, and most unwillingly, of late

Heard many grievous, I do say, my lord,

Grievous complaints of you; which, being consider’d,Craig1916: 100

Have mov’d us and our council, that you shall

This morning come before us; where, I know,

You cannot with such freedom purge yourself,

But that, till further trial in those chargesCraig1916: 104

Which will require your answer, you must take

Your patience to you, and be well contented

To make your house our Tower: you a brother of us,

It fits we thus proceed, or else no witnessCraig1916: 108

Would come against you.

Cran.

[Kneeling.] I humbly thank your highness;

And am right glad to catch this good occasion

Most throughly to be winnow’d, where my chaff

Edition: current; Page: [763]

And corn shall fly asunder; for I knowCraig1916: 112

There’s none stands under more calumnious tongues

Than I myself, poor man.

K. Hen.

Stand up, good Canterbury:

Thy truth and thy integrity is rooted

In us, thy friend: give me thy hand, stand up:

Prithee, let’s walk. Now, by my holidame,Craig1916: 117

What manner of man are you? My lord, I look’d

You would have given me your petition, that

I should have ta’en some pains to bring togetherCraig1916: 120

Yourself and your accusers; and to have heard you,

Without indurance, further.

Cran.

Most dread liege,

The good I stand on is my truth and honesty:

If they shall fail, I, with mine enemies,Craig1916: 124

Will triumph o’er my person; which I weigh not,

Being of those virtues vacant. I fear nothing

What can be said against me.

K. Hen.

Know you not

How your state stands i’ the world, with the whole world?Craig1916: 128

Your enemies are many, and not small; their practices

Must bear the same proportion; and not ever

The justice and the truth o’ the question carries

The due o’ the verdict with it. At what easeCraig1916: 132

Might corrupt minds procure knaves as corrupt

To swear against you? such things have been done.

You are potently oppos’d, and with a malice

Of as great size. Ween you of better luck,Craig1916: 136

I mean in perjur’d witness, than your master,

Whose minister you are, whiles here he liv’d

Upon this naughty earth? Go to, go to;

You take a precipice for no leap of danger,Craig1916: 140

And woo your own destruction.

Cran.

God and your majesty

Protect mine innocence! or I fall into

The trap is laid for me!

K. Hen.

Be of good cheer;

They shall no more prevail than we give way to.Craig1916: 144

Keep comfort to you; and this morning see

You do appear before them. If they shall chance,

In charging you with matters, to commit you,

The best persuasions to the contraryCraig1916: 148

Fail not to use, and with what vehemency

The occasion shall instruct you: if entreaties

Will render you no remedy, this ring

Deliver them, and your appeal to usCraig1916: 152

There make before them. Look! the good man weeps;

He’s honest, on mine honour. God’s blest mother!

I swear he is true-hearted; and a soul

None better in my kingdom. Get you gone,Craig1916: 156

And do as I have bid you. [ExitCranmer.] He has strangled

His language in his tears.

Enter an Old Lady.

Gent.

[Within.] Come back: what mean you?

Old L.

I’ll not come back; the tidings that I bringCraig1916: 160

Will make my boldness manners. Now, good angels

Fly o’er thy royal head, and shade thy person

Under their blessed wings!

K. Hen.

Now, by thy looks

I guess thy message. Is the queen deliver’d?

Say, ay; and of a boy.

Old L.

Ay, ay, my liege;Craig1916: 165

And of a lovely boy: the God of heaven

Both now and ever bless her! ’tis a girl,

Promises boys hereafter. Sir, your queenCraig1916: 168

Desires your visitation, and to be

Acquainted with this stranger: ’tis as like you

As cherry is to cherry.

K. Hen.

Lovell!

Re-enterLovell.

Lov.

Sir!

K. Hen.

Give her a hundred marks. I’ll to the queen.

[Exit.

Old L.

A hundred marks! By this light, I’ll ha’ more.Craig1916: 173

An ordinary groom is for such payment:

I will have more, or scold it out of him.

Said I for this the girl was like to him?Craig1916: 176

I will have more, or else unsay’t; and now,

While it is hot, I’ll put it to the issue.

[Exeunt.

Scene II.—: The Lobby before the Council-Chamber.

EnterCranmer; Pursuivants, Pages, &c., attending.

Cran.

I hope I am not too late; and yet the gentleman,

That was sent to me from the council, pray’d me

To make great haste. All fast? what means this? Ho!

Who waits there?

EnterKeeper.

Sure, you know me?

Keep.

Yes, my lord;Craig1916: 4

But yet I cannot help you.

Edition: current; Page: [764]

Cran.

Why?

Keep.

Your Grace must wait till you be call’d for.

EnterDoctor Butts.

Cran.

So.

Butts.

[Aside.] This is a piece of malice. I am glad

I came this way so happily: the kingCraig1916: 8

Shall understand it presently.

Cran.

[Aside.] ’Tis Butts,

The king’s physician. As he past along,

How earnestly he cast his eyes upon me.

Pray heaven he sound not my disgrace! For certain,Craig1916: 12

This is of purpose laid by some that hate me,—

God turn their hearts! I never sought their malice,—

To quench mine honour: they would shame to make me

Wait else at door, a fellow-counsellor,Craig1916: 16

’Mong boys, grooms, and lackeys. But their pleasures

Must be fulfill’d, and I attend with patience.

Enter, at a window above, theKingandButts.

Butts.

I’ll show your Grace the strangest sight,—

K. Hen.

What’s that, Butts?

Butts.

I think your highness saw this many a day.Craig1916: 20

K. Hen.

Body o’ me, where is it?

Butts.

There, my lord,

The high promotion of his Grace of Canterbury;

Who holds his state at door, ’mongst pursuivants,

Pages, and footboys.

K. Hen.

Ha! ’Tis he, indeed:Craig1916: 24

Is this the honour they do one another?

’Tis well there’s one above ’em yet. I had thought

They had parted so much honesty among ’em,—

At least, good manners,—as not thus to sufferCraig1916: 28

A man of his place, and so near our favour,

To dance attendance on their lordships’ pleasures,

And at the door too, like a post with packets.

By holy Mary, Butts, there’s knavery:Craig1916: 32

Let ’em alone, and draw the curtain close;

We shall hear more anon.

[Exeunt above.

Scene III.—: The Council-Chamber.

Enter the Lord Chancellor, theDuke of Suffolk,theDuke of Norfolk, Earl of Surrey, Lord Chamberlain, Gardiner,andCromwell.The Chancellor places himself at the upper end of the table on the left hand; a seat being left void above him, as for theArchbishop of Canterbury.The rest seat themselves in order on each side.Cromwellat the lower end as secretary. Keeper at the door.

Chan.

Speak to the business, Master secretary:

Why are we met in council?

Crom.

Please your honours,

The chief cause concerns his Grace of Canterbury.

Gar.

Has he had knowledge of it?

Crom.

Yes.

Nor.

Who waits there?Craig1916: 4

Keep.

Without, my noble lords?

Gar.

Yes.

Keep.

My lord archbishop:

And has done half-an-hour, to know your pleasures.

Chan.

Let him come in.

Keep.

Your Grace may enter now.

[Cranmerenters and approaches the council-table.

Chan.

My good lord archbishop, I’m very sorryCraig1916: 8

To sit here at this present and behold

That chair stand empty: but we all are men,

In our own natures frail, and capable

Of our flesh; few are angels: out of which frailty

And want of wisdom, you, that best should teach us,Craig1916: 13

Have misdemean’d yourself, and not a little,

Toward the king first, then his laws, in filling

The whole realm, by your teaching and your chaplains,—Craig1916: 16

For so we are inform’d,—with new opinions,

Divers and dangerous; which are heresies,

And, not reform’d, may prove pernicious.

Gar.

Which reformation must be sudden too,

My noble lords; for those that tame wild horses

Pace ’em not in their hands to make ’em gentle,

But stop their mouths with stubborn bits, and spur ’em,

Till they obey the manage. If we suffer—Craig1916: 24

Out of our easiness and childish pity

To one man’s honour—this contagious sickness,

Farewell all physic: and what follows then?

Commotions, uproars, with a general taintCraig1916: 28

Of the whole state: as, of late days, our neighbours,

The upper Germany, can dearly witness,

Yet freshly pitied in our memories.

Cran.

My good lords, hitherto in all the progressCraig1916: 32

Both of my life and office, I have labour’d,

And with no little study, that my teaching

Edition: current; Page: [765]

And the strong course of my authority

Might go one way, and safely; and the endCraig1916: 36

Was ever, to do well: nor is there living,—

I speak it with a single heart, my lords,—

A man that more detests, more stirs against,

Both in his private conscience and his place,Craig1916: 40

Defacers of a public peace, than I do.

Pray heaven the king may never find a heart

With less allegiance in it! Men, that make

Envy and crooked malice nourishmentCraig1916: 44

Dare bite the best. I do beseech your lordships

That, in this case of justice, my accusers,

Be what they will, may stand forth face to face,

And freely urge against me.

Suf.

Nay, my lord,Craig1916: 48

That cannot be: you are a counsellor,

And by that virtue no man dare accuse you.

Gar.

My lord, because we have business of more moment,

We will be short with you. ’Tis his highness’ pleasure,Craig1916: 52

And our consent, for better trial of you,

From hence you be committed to the Tower;

Where, being but a private man again,

You shall know many dare accuse you boldly,

More than, I fear, you are provided for.Craig1916: 57

Cran.

Ah! my good Lord of Winchester, I thank you;

You are always my good friend: if your will pass,

I shall both find your lordship judge and juror,

You are so merciful. I see your end;Craig1916: 61

’Tis my undoing: love and meekness, lord,

Become a churchman better than ambition:

Win straying souls with modesty again,Craig1916: 64

Cast none away. That I shall clear myself,

Lay all the weight ye can upon my patience,

I make as little doubt, as you do conscience,

In doing daily wrongs. I could say more,Craig1916: 68

But reverence to your calling makes me modest.

Gar.

My lord, my lord, you are a sectary;

That’s the plain truth: your painted gloss discovers,

To men that understand you, words and weakness.Craig1916: 72

Crom.

My Lord of Winchester, you are a little,

By your good favour, too sharp; men so noble,

However faulty, yet should find respect

For what they have been: ’tis a crueltyCraig1916: 76

To load a falling man.

Gar.

Good Master secretary,

I cry your honour mercy, you may, worst

Of all this table, say so.

Crom.

Why, my lord?

Gar.

Do not I know you for a favourerCraig1916: 80

Of this new sect? ye are not sound.

Crom.

Not sound?

Gar.

Not sound, I say.

Crom.

Would you were half so honest!

Men’s prayers then would seek you, not their fears.

Gar.

I shall remember this bold language.

Crom.

Do.Craig1916: 84

Remember your bold life too.

Chan.

This is too much;

Forbear, for shame, my lords.

Gar.

I have done.

Crom.

And I.

Chan.

Then thus for you, my lord: it stands agreed,

I take it, by all voices, that forthwithCraig1916: 88

You be convey’d to the Tower a prisoner;

There to remain till the king’s further pleasure

Be known unto us. Are you all agreed, lords?

All.

We are.

Cran.

Is there no other way of mercy,

But I must needs to the Tower, my lords?

Gar.

What otherCraig1916: 93

Would you expect? You are strangely troublesome.

Let some o’ the guard be ready there.

Enter Guard.

Cran.

For me?

Must I go like a traitor thither?

Gar.

Receive him,Craig1916: 96

And see him safe i’ the Tower.

Cran.

Stay, good my lords;

I have a little yet to say. Look there, my lords;

By virtue of that ring I take my cause

Out of the gripes of cruel men, and give itCraig1916: 100

To a most noble judge, the king my master.

Chan.

This is the king’s ring.

Sur.

’Tis no counterfeit.

Suf.

’Tis the right ring, by heaven! I told ye all,

When we first put this dangerous stone a-rolling,

’Twould fall upon ourselves.

Nor.

Do you think, my lords,Craig1916: 105

The king will suffer but the little finger

Of this man to be vex’d?

Cham.

’Tis now too certain:

How much more is his life in value with him?

Would I were fairly out on’t.

Crom.

My mind gave me,Craig1916: 109

In seeking tales and informations

Against this man—whose honesty the devil

And his disciples only envy at—Craig1916: 112

Ye blew the fire that burns ye: now have at ye!

Enter theKing,frowning on them: he takes his seat.

Gar.

Dread sovereign, how much are we bound to heaven

In daily thanks, that gave us such a prince;

Not only good and wise, but most religious:Craig1916: 116

Edition: current; Page: [766]

One that in all obedience makes the Church

The chief aim of his honour; and, to strengthen

That holy duty, out of dear respect,

His royal self in judgment comes to hearCraig1916: 120

The cause betwixt her and this great offender.

K. Hen.

You were ever good at sudden commendations,

Bishop of Winchester; but know, I come not

To hear such flattery now, and in my presence;

They are too thin and bare to hide offences.Craig1916: 125

To me you cannot reach; you play the spaniel,

And think with wagging of your tongue to win me;

But, whatsoe’er thou tak’st me for, I’m sureCraig1916: 128

Thou hast a cruel nature and a bloody.

[ToCranmer.] Good man, sit down. Now let me see the proudest

He, that dares most, but wag his finger at thee:

By all that’s holy, he had better starveCraig1916: 132

Than but once think this place becomes thee not.

Sur.

May it please your Grace,—

K. Hen.

No, sir, it does not please me.

I had thought I had had men of some understanding

And wisdom of my council; but I find none.Craig1916: 136

Was it discretion, lords, to let this man,

This good man,—few of you deserve that title,—

This honest man, wait like a lousy footboy

At chamber-door? and one as great as you are?

Why, what a shame was this! Did my commissionCraig1916: 141

Bid ye so far forget yourselves? I gave ye

Power as he was a counsellor to try him,

Not as a groom. There’s some of ye, I see,Craig1916: 144

More out of malice than integrity,

Would try him to the utmost, had ye mean;

Which ye shall never have while I live.

Chan.

Thus far,

My most dread sov’reign, may it like your GraceCraig1916: 148

To let my tongue excuse all. What was purpos’d

Concerning his imprisonment, was rather—

If there be faith in men—meant for his trial

And fair purgation to the world, than malice,Craig1916: 152

I’m sure, in me.

K. Hen.

Well, well, my lords, respect him;

Take him, and use him well; he’s worthy of it.

I will say thus much for him, if a prince

May be beholding to a subject, ICraig1916: 156

Am, for his love and service, so to him.

Make me no more ado, but all embrace him:

Be friends, for shame, my lords! My Lord of Canterbury,

I have a suit which you must not deny me;Craig1916: 160

That is, a fair young maid that yet wants baptism,

You must be godfather, and answer for her.

Cran.

The greatest monarch now alive may glory

In such an honour: how may I deserve it,Craig1916: 164

That am a poor and humble subject to you?

K. Hen.

Come, come, my lord, you’d spare your spoons: you shall have two noble partners with you; the old Duchess of Norfolk, and Lady Marquess Dorset: will these please you?Craig1916: 169

Once more, my Lord of Winchester, I charge you,

Embrace and love this man.

Gar.

With a true heart

And brother-love I do it.

Cran.

And let heavenCraig1916: 172

Witness, how dear I hold this confirmation.

K. Hen.

Good man! those joyful tears show thy true heart:

The common voice, I see, is verified

Of thee, which says thus, ‘Do my Lord of CanterburyCraig1916: 176

A shrewd turn, and he is your friend for ever.’

Come, lords, we trifle time away; I long

To have this young one made a Christian.

As I have made ye one, lords, one remain;Craig1916: 180

So I grow stronger, you more honour gain.

[Exeunt.

Scene IV.—: The Palace-Yard.

Noise and tumult within. Enter Porter and his Man.

Port.

You’ll leave your noise anon, ye rascals.

Do you take the court for Paris-garden? ye rude slaves, leave your gaping.

[Within.] Good Master porter, I belong to the larder.Craig1916: 5

Port.

Belong to the gallows, and be hanged, you rogue! Is this a place to roar in? Fetch me a dozen crab-tree staves, and strong ones: these are but switches to ’em. I’ll scratch your heads: you must be seeing christenings! Do you look for ale and cakes here, you rude rascals?Craig1916: 12

Man.

Pray, sir, be patient: ’tis as much impossible—

Unless we sweep ’em from the door with cannons—

To scatter ’em, as ’tis to make ’em sleep

On May-day morning; which will never be.Craig1916: 16

We may as well push against Paul’s as stir ’em.

Port.

How got they in, and be hang’d?

Man.

Alas, I know not; how gets the tide in?

As much as one sound cudgel of four foot—Craig1916: 20

You see the poor remainder—could distribute,

I made no spare, sir.

Port.

You did nothing, sir.

Edition: current; Page: [767]

Man.

I am not Samson, nor Sir Guy, nor Colbrand,

To mow ’em down before me; but if I spar’d any

That had a head to hit, either young or old,Craig1916: 25

He or she, cuckold or cuckold-maker,

Let me ne’er hope to see a chine again;

And that I would not for a cow, God save her!

[Within.] Do you hear, Master porter?Craig1916: 29

Port.

I shall be with you presently, good

Master puppy. Keep the door close, sirrah.

Man.

What would you have me do?Craig1916: 32

Port.

What should you do, but knock ’em down by the dozens? Is this Moorfields to muster in? or have we some strange Indian with the great tool come to court, the women so besiege us? Bless me, what a fry of fornication is at door! On my Christian conscience, this one christening will beget a thousand: here will be father, godfather, and all together.Craig1916: 40

Man.

The spoons will be the bigger, sir. There is a fellow somewhat near the door, he should be a brazier by his face, for, o’ my conscience, twenty of the dog days now reign in’s nose: all that stand about him are under the line, they need no other penance. That fire-drake did I hit three times on the head, and three times was his nose discharged against me: he stands there, like a mortar-piece, to blow us. There was a haberdasher’s wife of small wit near him, that railed upon me till her pinked porringer fell off her head, for kindling such a combustion in the state. I missed the meteor once, and hit that woman, who cried out, ‘Clubs!’ when I might see from far some forty truncheoners draw to her succour, which were the hope o’ the Strand, where she was quartered. They fell on; I made good my place; at length they came to the broomstaff to me; I defied ’em still; when suddenly a file of boys behind ’em, loose shot, delivered such a shower of pebbles, that I was fain to draw mine honour in, and let ’em win the work. The devil was amongst ’em, I think, surely.Craig1916: 64

Port.

These are the youths that thunder at a playhouse, and fight for bitten apples; that no audience, but the Tribulation of Tower-hill, or the Limbs of Limehouse, their dear brothers, are able to endure. I have some of ’em in Limbo Patrum, and there they are like to dance these three days; besides the running banquet of two beadles, that is to come.Craig1916: 72

Enter the Lord Chamberlain.

Cham.

Mercy o’ me, what a multitude are here!

They grow still too, from all parts they are coming,

As if we kept a fair here! Where are these porters,

These lazy knaves? Ye have made a fine hand, fellows:Craig1916: 76

There’s a trim rabble let in. Are all these

Your faithful friends o’ the suburbs? We shall have

Great store of room, no doubt, left for the ladies,

When they pass back from the christening.

Port.

An’t please your honour,Craig1916: 80

We are but men; and what so many may do,

Not being torn a-pieces, we have done:

An army cannot rule ’em.

Cham.

As I live,

If the king blame me for’t, I’ll lay ye allCraig1916: 84

By the heels, and suddenly; and on your heads

Clap round fines for neglect: ye’re lazy knaves;

And here ye lie baiting of bombards, when

Ye should do service. Hark! the trumpets sound;Craig1916: 88

They’re come already from the christening.

Go, break among the press, and find a way out

To let the troop pass fairly, or I’ll find

A Marshalsea shall hold ye play these two months.Craig1916: 92

Port.

Make way there for the princess.

Man.

You great fellow,

Stand close up, or I’ll make your head ache.

Port.

You i’ the camlet, get up o’ the rail:

I’ll pick you o’er the pales else.

[Exeunt.

Scene V.—: The Palace.

Enter trumpets, sounding; then two Aldermen, Lord Mayor, Garter, Cranmer, Duke of Norfolk,with his marshal’s staff,Duke of Suffolk,two Noblemen bearing great standing-bowls for the christening gifts; then, four Noblemen bearing a canopy, under which theDuchess of Norfolk,godmother, bearing the child, richly habited in a mantle, &c., train borne by a Lady; then follows theMarchioness of Dorset,the other godmother, and Ladies. The troop pass once about the stage, and Garter speaks.

Gart.

Heaven, from thy endless goodness, send prosperous life, long, and ever happy, to the high and mighty Princess of England, Elizabeth!Craig1916: 4